Vaginal dryness is not something that women find it easy to talk about, even to their doctor, yet it is a common problem, especially among menopausal women. However, the condition can also affect post-partum women. But is vaginal dryness soon after delivery normal?
Vaginal dryness
The vagina is normally kept moist and elastic by healthy mucous membranes in the vaginal canal. The membranes in turn depend on estrogen to maturate the squamous cells composing the vaginal lining. When the vagina received the adequate estrogen stimulation the mucosal surfaces are pink, elastic and moist.The natural lubrication can be interrupted by a number of factors that affect the amount and type of estrogen that vaginal squamous cells are exposed to.
Is vaginal dryness normal following pregnancy?
There is almost never any vaginal dryness during pregnancy due to the high systemic levels of the bio-identical estrogen made by the placenta known as Estriol or E3. Marked hormone fluctuations that occur following deivery, especially associated with lactation, can trigger a decline in the amount of vaginal squamous cell maturation. As a result, the vagina becomes dry, less elastic and sensitive to touch. So it is not uncommon for there to be pain with intercourse following pregnancy even if there was no episiotomy.
Vaginal dryness is often accompanied by itching, burning, irritation, as well as pain during intercourse. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact Fowler GYN International (FGI), Paradise Valley, AZ.
FGI specializes in vaginal disorders, and are prepared to take the time and effort to properly diagnose the cause of your problem. If a clear diagnosis cannot be made after reviewing your symptoms, a Vaginal Fluid Analysis Test (VFA) is preformed to determine the source of discomfort. The VFA provides very accurate results.
If you are post-partum and suffering from vaginal dryness, give FGI a call today. Call 480-420-4001 to schedule an appointment with board certified gynecologist Dr. R. Stuart Fowler, or go to www.fowlergyninternational.com/contact-us for additional information.